Banking

The following banks have branches in Dijon :

International students can open an account at any of these banks, but the school has an agreement with the "Banque National de Paris" (BNP) and the "Société Générale" (SG). In these banks you can open an account free of charge. Students from "Melting Potes" can help you o open an account during the induction week. It's sufficient to have an address in France to get a bank account.

Normal banking hours are 9:30-18:00 Monday-Friday, often closing between 12:00-13:30. All close on weekends (some exceptionally open on Saturday morning only) and public holidays. Currency exchange is available at several banks including the Bank of France. If you do not open a bank account, the best place to exchange traveller's checks is at the Post Office.

For speedy money transfers between countries, you may ask your own bank which French bank it is affiliated with. Bear in mind that overseas money transfers are sometimes very slow and can be expensive.

Credit cards are widely accepted in France for payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, travel agencies etc. However, enquire with your bank whether your pin code will be accepted abroad to withdraw money from a cash dispenser.

Students have found that the easiest way to deal with money is ATM withdrawals and credit charges, almost all ATM cards work in France, but check with your bank before departure.